Alcohol remains the most commonly used drug among teenagers, and recreational use of marijuana and prescription drugs among teens is also on the rise according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC , 2016). This October, Day One and RAD presented Communities Talk! Let's Talk About Underage Drinking a special 3-part townhall series in the San Gabriel Valley to raise awareness about underage drinking and other drug use. The townhall meetings held in El Monte, Pomona, and Pasadena in English and Spanish engaged community members, youth and adults from each city in a discussion about alcohol misuse and abuse among teens as well as community solutions.

Day One Youth Advocates, parents, elected officials, school district staff, fire and police department staff, and community members from each city participated in the events in their which included youth-led skits, youth panelists, and interactive discussions. Participants learned about current teen alcohol trends in their city, and discussed community solutions to prevent the health and safety risks related to underage teen drinking that include violence, sexual assault, and driving under the influence.

Alcohol is the most abused drug among youth in the U.S., and is used by teens more than​ all other drugs combined.

Youth drink 11% of all alcohol consumed in the U.S.

Alcohol is the #1 cause of accidental injury and death among teens.

696,000 college students experience alcohol-related assault every year.

Youth who begin drinking before age 15 are 4 times more likely to develop alcohol dependence or addiction.

After learning and listening to youth speak about their experiences with alcohol and drugs in their city, community members voted to prioritize local prevention strategies for their city. Community organizations including Pacific Clinics, Bike San Gabriel Valley, ChapCare, the Pasadena Public Health Department, Insight and the Pasadena Altadena Coalition of Transformative Leaders (PACTL) participated by providing resources and information. This series was made possible by the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Youth Speaker PanelYouth participants answered questions, and shared personal experiences and perspectives on underage drinking culture in their city .

Community SolutionsCommunity members voted to prioritize community prevention strategies and polices for their cities, including: Restrictions on Alcohol Advertising, Deemed Approved, and Social Host Ordinances.

What YOU can DO: 1. Never serve alcohol to youth under age 21. ​2. Get to know your teens friends and how to reach their parents.3. Connect with other parents and agree to notify each other a parent who serves alcohol to minors.4. Set clear expectations and consequences together with your teen.5. Participate in prevention education activities and events.6. Support local prevention efforts by connecting with RAD!